Tanker Explosion Claims 30 Lives, Injures 40 in Niger State

At least 30 people have been confirmed dead and 40 others severely injured following a tanker explosion on Tuesday morning along Essa and Badeggi communities, between Bida and Agaie Road, in Katcha Local Council of Niger State.

The incident occurred around 11 a.m. when residents reportedly rushed to scoop fuel from a fallen tanker loaded with petroleum products. The tanker suddenly exploded, killing many at the scene.

Eyewitnesses said several victims were burnt beyond recognition, while survivors with serious burns were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Confirming the tragedy, the Niger State Chairman of the Tanker Drivers Association and National Ex-Officio of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Comrade Farouk Mohammed Kawo, said the ill-fated tanker was transporting fuel from Lagos to northern Nigeria.

Kawo lamented that the area had become notorious for accidents, revealing that over 30 tankers had been involved in crashes along the same route in October alone. “This is very bad for motorists plying the road. The condition of that section is terrible and needs urgent attention,” he said.

He further expressed concern over the growing habit of residents, especially youths, who rush to scoop products from crashed tankers. “Just last Sunday, another tanker carrying groundnut oil had an accident in the same area, and people still scooped the product despite the risk,” he added.

Kawo appealed to Governor Mohammed Umar Bago to urgently repair and grade the affected portion of the road to prevent further tragedies and protect lives and property.